I am re-activating a past employee. Do I need to place a new hire date? and fill out new w2's?

Hi there, @KKHRS. Thanks for reaching out to the Community.

If the employee was ever released from their previous role and then re-hired, you would need to enter their new hire date in and make sure their W-4 information is still accurate. Updating employee payroll information in QuickBooks Online is super easy and takes just a few moments. Check it out:

1. Select Workers from the left  menu > Employees.
2. Click the name of the employee whose details you want to change.
3. Make your changes, then Save them.

That's it! Please touch base with us here if there's anything else you need, I'm determined to ensure your success. Have a good one!

Is a new W4 necessary if it has been a couple of years since they were here last? Or do you just update in QB?

You'll want to use the new 2020 Form W-4, KKHRS.

Since this is a re-hired employee with new hired date, the system will require you to do so. Here's how:

1. Click Workers on the left pane.
2. Select Employees.
3. Select the name of the employee.
4. Click Edit beside Pay.
5. Select the 2020 W-4 or later radio button.
6. Select Update.
7. Enter the employee's W-4 information into the form.
8. Select Done to save.

Check out the Internal Revenue Service FAQs on the 2020 Form W-4: FAQs on the 2020 Form W-4.

I'll be around if you have additional questions.